Preparing Yourself for Criminal Court

Posted on Dec 8, 2016 5:41pm PST

In our society, we live by long-established rules of “good conduct”
and “proper etiquette.” Whether we’re at church, taking
a class, waiting in line someplace, or holding doors for strangers, we
are expected to be polite, courteous, and follow the standard etiquette
rules for the given situation, and courtrooms are NO exception.

In the courtroom, we advise all of our clients that proper courtroom etiquette
is essential for making a good impression on the judge and the prosecutor.
But, proper etiquette doesn’t apply to
only defendants: criminal defense attorneys, witnesses, and jurors are all expected
to dress appropriately, show respect for the judge and the court, and
be on their best behavior.

While a fresh haircut, a collared shirt that’s tucked in (for men),
a powered-off cellphone, and a polite and respectful tone may seem minor,
we assure you they are not. These are all considered “proper courtroom
etiquette” and when a defendant lacks the proper attire and attitude,
it can be disastrous to their case.

Criminal defendants must always observe courteous courtroom behavior. When
they address the court, the judge is the main focal point. When the judge
enters or leaves the room, they must rise, and when asked a direct yes
or no question, the defendant should always follow with “sir”
or “ma’am.”

Criminal defense lawyers are in the practice of informing their clients
about the proper courtroom etiquette before their court appearances. Despite
their best efforts, most defense lawyers have stories about defendants
they’ve seen through their careers that made significant blunders in court.

Proper courtroom etiquette can determine whether a judge will be lenient
or harsh on a defendant, and history has made it clear that poor dress
presentation and bad manners in the courtroom can have a huge effect on
a judge’s demeanor, and how a judge handles a case.

Basic courtroom etiquette:

Arrive early

Shut off your cellphone before entering the courtroom

Get a haircut if you need one

Dress nicely and as if you’re attending church or applying for a bank job

Don’t chew gum

Refer to the judge as “Your Honor”

NEVER interrupt the judge when he or she is talking

If the judge interrupts you, stop talking right away

Do not use foul language or raise your voice

Speak to your attorney, the judge, the prosecutor, and courtroom staff
with respect

Don’t show up at court with your children

Stand when the judge enters or leaves the room

Don’t underestimate the power of a good impression in court –
it can go a long way just as a bad impression can be extremely detrimental
to the outcome of your case. If you are facing criminal charges in Denton
and need legal representation,
contact our office for a
free initial consultation.

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Disclaimer

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.